Lions Select Local Linebacker Rolder

0:00On April 25, Detroit Lions kicked off day three of the 2026 NFL draft by grabbing local flavor, selecting Michigan Linebacker Jimmy, rolder in the fourth round at pick 118. With their top needs already handled early, they turned to bolstering linebacker depth on defense. The Lions have thin options there, with only dared barns locked in past this year and they're eyeing an extension for Jack Campbell. Their rest are on short deals, so they needed long term pieces to build around. Rolder brings solid college tape from 42 games, including 11 starts, with 118 tackles, 9 for loss, 2 sacks, and all big 10 honors as a starter last season. He's a lead in tackling and run defense per PFF grades, with great athleticism, but coverage and pass rush need work since he lacks starting reps. On the roster, he slots in behind barns and Campbell, challenging Malcolm Rodriguez for the number three spot or special teams duties alongside guys.

1:00Like Trevor Noesky, at worst, he's a reliable back up, at best, an average starter down the line. This feels like a smart, gritty fit for Detroit's run stuffing crew, giving them competition and future upside without forcing it, especially with his, special teams background to earn early snaps. I'm Corey with The Story, that's your NFL news today update, AI powered and always on.